Valdosta State University

Programme overview

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology investigates how physical activity and structured exercise change human physiology and function. The program is CAAHEP-accredited and designed to prepare graduates for direct employment in exercise physiology roles and to provide prerequisite coursework for advanced study in allied health and medicine. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on skill development and culminates in a supervised internship.

What you'll study

Instruction covers the science of movement, evidence-based exercise prescription, and the application of exercise to improve health and human performance. Every course includes practical, experiential learning; the program requires a 400-hour (12-credit hour) supervised internship in a professional exercise physiology workplace. Junior and senior level course listings and minimal expectations for cognitive, psychomotor and affective competencies are maintained in the university catalog.

Entry requirements

• Declared major in Exercise Physiology.
• Completion of all Core IMPACTS requirements relevant to the Exercise Physiology curriculum.
• Earn a grade of C or better in all Writing, STEM and Field of Study courses, including lab sections.
• Minimum overall GPA of 2.00.
• Admission into the junior/senior (major) curriculum occurs in fall and spring only (no summer admission); there is no cap on enrollment.
• For major coursework at the 3000/4000 level, a grade of C or better and a 2.00 cumulative GPA are required.
• Progression: classes are taken in sequenced blocks; to enter third-block courses students must have a C or better in all first- and second-block courses (one repeated second-block course is an allowed exception). Eligibility for the practicum requires a returned graduation application and current enrollment in remaining coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of fields that involve movement and rehabilitation. Examples cited by the program include physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, strength and conditioning, sports performance, cardiopulmonary and oncology rehabilitation, clinical exercise physiology, dietetics and sports nutrition, physician or physician assistant preparation, pharmaceutical sales, health coaching, and education. Many of these pathways require further graduate or professional training beyond the BS.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Because the program is career-focused and accredited, students may be competitive for departmental scholarships, work-study, and external funding tied to allied health and rehabilitation fields; also, completion of practicum and certification-eligible coursework can improve employability and eligibility for employer-sponsored support. Check VSU financial aid and departmental resources for current funding opportunities.